STRAITS STATE PARK

STRAITS STATE PARK is located on Church Street, in the City of St. Ignace, south of US-2. Within the park is a picnic area and an overlook with an observation platform overlooking the Mackinac Bridge and the Straits of Mackinac.

History

Straits State Park was established in 1924. In the 1950s, land was acquired for the west campground, North 1 and North 2 campgrounds and new headquarters area. In 1974, land was dedicated for the Father Marquette Unit and construction was started. In the spring of 1980, the Father Marquette National Memorial and Museum was dedicated and opened.

Camping and Day Use

The park has 275 modern campsites that feature electricity, fire pits and picnic tables. There are modern restroom buildings, with hot showers and flush toilets and two sanitation stations. A shady picnic area is located in the park. Also, there is an overlook platform for viewing the Mackinac Bridge and Straits of Mackinac.

Mini-Cabins

The park has two mini-cabins available for rent. The cabins are designed to sleep four, with bunks and mattresses provided. The cabins have electric lights.

Trail Information

A hiking trail runs through the park. At one end, there is a viewing platform with an overlook of the Straits of Mackinac and Mackinac Bridge. The other end has a different view of the Mackinac Bridge.

Boating and Fishing

There is a boat launch in downtown St. Ignace, 1/2 mile away. Fishing is allowed on the shore of Lake Huron, with the best fishing located west of the Mackinac Bridge. The water is too shallow in front of the park for good shore fishing.

Winter Activities

The campground is closed during the winter months. Camping is allowed at the Headquarters parking lot. Cross-country skiers can use the unplowed campground roads and picnic area.

Area Attractions

Mackinac Island is the featured attraction in the area located four miles across Lake Huron. There are three ferry lines servicing to the island. There are gift shops, restaurants, and a casino in St. Ignace.

Many campers leave their trailers at the park and make day trips up to Tahquamenon Falls (80 miles) and to the Soo Locks (50 miles). St. Ignace is known for its antique auto show on the last weekend in June and the Labor Day Bridge Walk held every Labor Day on the Mackinac Bridge.

Location

From I-75, exit onto US-2 and head east, turn right onto Church Street and go 1/4 mile to park.